The Process of Asbestos Abatement

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The Process of Asbestos Abatement

When you have discovered asbestos in your home or commercial building, you should retain the services of a professional asbestos abatement company such as Nielsen Environmental. Asbestos is a deadly material which means time is of the essence to get it removed as quickly as possible. For a consultation with Nielsen Environmental, call today.

The Use of Asbestos

You might have purchased an older home because of its architectural design and charm. However, living in these homes can pose a risk to your health. This is primarily because many contain asbestos in the walls, tiles, roof, insulation, and more. Asbestos was used for centuries prior to the 1980s when it was made illegal. Purchasing a home built before 1990 nearly guarantees that asbestos will be found somewhere inside, on the roof, in the furnace, or elsewhere. As long as the asbestos is not disturbed, it generally won't cause harm. However, it may be in your best interest to hire an asbestos abatement company to test for the presence of the microparticles and take the necessary action to have it removed from your home.

The Asbestos Abatement Process

Asbestos is technically safe when it is intact. Prior to beginning a renovation of your home, your should have an asbestos inspector come out and examine the area that will be renovated. If there are any further areas that may be of a concern, for instance a leaking roof or cracked wall, you may want to tell the inspector. Any wear and tear kind of damage could promote a risk of asbestos exposure. If the inspector finds asbestos, they may provide you with further details and advice on what to do next.

More than likely you will be recommended to hire an asbestos abatement company who can remove the materials that contain asbestos.

Finding an Asbestos Abatement Company

Under state and federal legislation, there are strict laws regarding how much asbestos can be removed from a home, and where it can be disposed of. While individuals can remove a small amount of asbestos on their own, it is not advisable. There are very precise techniques to remove the material without being exposed. This is why you should hire an asbestos abatement company. These businesses will likely have special certifications for asbestos removal. Employees might have also taken and passed various exams, courses, and certifications.

Asbestos Abatement Process Begins

After you have selected an asbestos abatement company, the process can begin according to the regulations in place. The following is an example of the abatement process:

You will receive a written contract that details the scope of the project, company's objectives, and an explanation of the rules they have to follow. It might also include fee structuring, timeframes, and other project details.

The site may be marked as a 'hazardous area' while the removal of asbestos takes place. Occupants and pets should not be allowed inside the house or area during the procedure. The area may be sealed off completely with plastic sheeting. The heating and cooling systems will also likely be turned off.

As the asbestos is removed from the house, the workers may keep it moist or wet. This prevents loose fibers from becoming airborne. The asbestos should not be broken down into small pieces.

After the asbestos has been removed, the asbestos abatement company will begin a cleanup process. This could include special plastic bags that the asbestos, workers wear, and equipment will be placed into. The area may be heavily cleaned with wet mops, rags, and HEPA vacuums.

Once the asbestos abatement company has finished the procedure, you may receive further documents that explains the work done and guarantees protocols were followed. An asbestos inspector may reexamine the site to ensure the hazardous material, and any risk, has been eliminated.

Would You Like to Have Asbestos Removed from Your Home?

If you have found asbestos in your home, regardless of it being a threat or intact, it should be removed. To speak with an asbestos abatement company, call Nielsen Environmental now.